IT proved to be a game of two halves as rugby returned to Holden Road for the first time since last month.

Due to postponed and blank weekends, Burnley had not played at home for a number of weeks but they got off to a flying start against high-flying St Edwards, racing to a 10-0 lead by half time.

But a sending off proved costly for Burnley as the Old Boys scored 25 points to go top of North Lancs League One.

Edwards, as expected started sharply but Burnley held firm.

And it was the home team who scored first when strong runs from Ed Taylor and Ben Healy ended with scrum half Dom Leck feeding captain Nino Angelone who powered over.

Leck added the conversion and slotted over a penalty soon after to make it 10-0.

But just before the break Burnley were reduced to 14 man and the Old Boys took full advantage in the second period.

Despite some brave rearguard action from Burnley, Old Boys made the most of their man advantage and scored two tries in the corner thanks to overlaps.

With Burnley giving away far too many penalties, the Old Boys continued to keep the boys ticking over – although Angelone did cross for his second try of the game late on.

Burnley are back in action at Holden Road on Saturday against Bolton (2.15pm ko).